Complex Ventral Hernia Repair Research Articles

The effects of socioeconomic status on complex ventral hernia repair operative decision-making and outcomes

BackgroundPatients from low socioeconomic backgrounds have greater rates of morbidity and mortality across disease processes. The Distressed Communities Index identified several socioeconomic components that were used to create a Distressed Communities Index score for every ZIP code, then broken into quintiles from prosperous to distressed. We aimed to explore whether socioeconomic distress as defined by the Distressed Communities Index affects the outcome of complex ventral hernia repair in the elderly population. MethodsRetrospective analysis was performed using the Abdominal Core Health Collaborative data. Included were adults aged 65+ years undergoing elective complex ventral hernia repair from 2013 to 2021. Primary outcomes were postoperative outcomes and composite hernia recurrence by Distressed Communities Index quintile. The Cox proportional hazards model was used for composite recurrence, and logistic regression was used for postoperative outcomes. ResultsA total of 4,172 patients were included. Patients in distressed communities were more likely to identify as female or racial minority and had greater body mass index and American Society of Anesthesiologists class. Lower Distressed Communities Index quintile was associated with larger hernia (P = .012), open repair (P = .019), and 30-day complication (P = .05). There was no association between time to recurrence and Distressed Communities Index quintile (P = .24). After adjusted analysis, there was no significant difference for readmission, reoperation, recurrence, and complications. ConclusionPatients from more distressed communities presented in worse clinical status with larger hernias. This likely contributed to greater rates of open repair and complications. However, when adjusted for these variables, outcomes were similar across Distressed Communities Index quintile. This supports the efficacy of complex hernia repair across socioeconomic classes.

A pragmatic study of Porcine Acellular Dermal Matrix Mesh in Ventral and Parastomal Hernia repairs. Evaluation of outcomes from a tertiary centre.

Aims and Objectives: Incidence of complex ventral hernias and those with contamination are increasing. Synthetic meshes are not favoured due to increased risk of wound complications. Biologic meshes are used as an alternative given their biocompatible safety, but, there is lack of strong evidence to recommend its routine use. Hence, it is up to institutions to evaluate the safety and efficacy to support its continuing usage, which is the basis of this study.
 
 Methods: A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained PADM mesh database was performed focussing on midline and parastomal hernias. Demographic data, surgical techniques and short- and long-term complications were reviewed.
 
 Results: 71cases, (acute/elective 10/61) were included. The median age group, sex ratio in the acute and elective groups were 67 years (36-83yrs) and 62years (25-93yrs), 2:1 and 4:3 respectively. Mean ASA score was 3.4 in acute and 2.4 in elective group. Midline hernias constituted 37/ 61 (60%) and Parastomal hernias, 40% (24/61). Component separation was performed in 29 cases, which includes bilateral anterior component separation in 16, unilateral anterior component in 11 and posterior component separation in 2. Median length of stay was 11days (1-180d) and 15 days (1-159d) in the elective and acute groups respectively. Median length of follow up was 18 months (12 -72 months). There were 5 deaths within 90 days. Recurrences were noted in 6/37 (16%) midline repairs and 8/24 (33%) parastomal hernias.
 Conclusion: Our limited PADM series showed acceptable results in comparison with available studies. As such we find it a useful adjunct in the repair of complex ventral hernias.

Autologous full-thickness skin in the repair of complex ventral hernias: an innovative step into the future of complex hernia repair?

The repair of complex ventral hernias, such as giant incisional or parastomal hernia, is associated with a high risk for complications and recurrence. Some serious complications are related to implantation of synthetic mesh as reinforcement material. Autologous full-thickness skin graft (FTSG) as reinforcement material in the repair of these complex hernias may offer a safe alternative. This is a review of the history of FTSG use in hernia surgery and the experiences of our research group regarding its application over the last decade. The results of FTSG used in the repair of giant ventral hernias are promising, and this method may already be recommended in selected cases. We have also conducted a translational chain of preclinical studies, based on a murine model, to gain a greater understanding of the behaviour of FTSG implanted in various positions in the abdominal wall. The use of intraperitoneal FTSG as reinforcement material in parastomal hernia repair is currently being evaluated in a randomised, controlled, multicentre study.

Determining the Association Between Insurance Type and Myofascial Release in Large Ventral Hernias

IntroductionAbdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) utilizes advanced myofascial releases to perform complex ventral hernia repair (VHR). The relationship between the performance of AWR and disparities in insurance type is unknown. MethodsThe Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative was queried for adults who had undergone an elective VHR between 2013 and 2020 with a hernia size ≥10 cm. Patients with missing insurance data were excluded. Comparison groups were divided by insurance type: favorable (private, Medicare, Veteran's Administration, Tricare) or unfavorable (Medicaid and self-pay). Propensity score matching compared the cumulative incidence of AWR between the favorable and unfavorable insurance comparison groups. ResultsIn total, 26,447 subjects met inclusion criteria. The majority (89%, n = 23,617) had favorable insurance, while (11%, n = 2830) had unfavorable insurance. After propensity score matching, 2821 patients with unfavorable insurance were matched to 7875 patients with favorable insurance. The rate of AWR with external oblique release or transversus abdominis release was significantly higher (23%, n = 655) among the unfavorable insurance group compared to those with favorable insurance (21%, n = 1651; P = 0.013). ConclusionsThis study provides evidence that patients with unfavorable insurance may undergo AWR with external oblique or transversus abdominis release at a greater rate than similar patients with favorable insurance. Understanding the mechanisms contributing to this difference and evaluating the financial implications of these trends represent important directions for future research in elective VHR.

Laparoscopic transversus abdominis release for complex ventral hernia repair: technique and initial findings.

The open Rives-Stoppa retrorectus and transversus abdominis release (TAR) techniques are well established in open ventral and incisional hernia repair. The principles are currently being translated into minimally invasive surgery with different concepts. In this study, we investigate our initial results of transperitoneal laparoscopic TAR for ventral incisional hernia repair (laparoscopic TAR). Over a 20-month period, 23 consecutive patients with incisional hernias underwent surgery. Laparoscopic TAR was performed transperitoneally with adhesiolysis from the anterior abdominal wall, development of the retrorectus space and TAR, midline reconstruction and extraperitoneal mesh reinforcement. There were 23 incisional hernias, of which 70% were M2-M4 and 60% were W3. Median patient age was 68years and the median BMI was 31. Median operating time was 313min, and hospital stay was 4days. Morbidity was 26% (Clavien-Dindo 1: n = 4 and 2 + 3b: n = 2). With the laparoscopic TAR, it was possible to treat a series of patients with ventral incisional hernias. The operating times were long. However, with a low rate of perioperative complications the hospital stay was short As feasibility is demonstrated, the clinical relevance of the method has to be further evaluated.

Biologic Versus Synthetic Mesh in Ventral Hernia Repair: Participant-Level Analysis of Two Randomized Controlled Trials at Twenty-Four to Thirty-Six Months.

Background: Biologic mesh has been used increasingly in complex ventral hernia repair despite limited evidence at low risk of bias supporting its use. Patients and Methods: We performed a participant-level analysis of published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing biologic to synthetic mesh with complex ventral hernia repair at 24 to 36 months. Primary outcome was major complication (composite of mesh infection, recurrence, reoperation, or death) at 24 to 36 months post-operative. Secondary outcomes included length of index hospital stay, surgical site occurrence, surgical site infection, and death. Outcomes were assessed using both frequentist and Bayesian generalized linear regression models. Results: A total of 252 patients from two RCTs were included, 126 patients randomized to the intervention arm of biologic and 126 patients to the control of synthetic mesh with median follow-up of 29 (23, 38) months. Major complication occurred in 33 (33%) patients randomized to biologic, and 39 (38%) patients randomized to synthetic mesh, (relative risk [RR] 0.91, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.63-1.31; p value = 0.600). Bayesian analysis demonstrated that compared with synthetic mesh, biologic mesh had similar probability of major complications at 24 to 36 months post-operative. The remainder of outcomes demonstrated slight benefit with synthetic mesh as opposed to biologic mesh except for mesh infection. However, under a frequentist framework, no outcome was statistically different. Conclusions: In patients undergoing open ventral hernia repair, there was no benefit for patients receiving biologic versus synthetic mesh at 24 to 36 months post-operative.

Preoperative Abdominal Muscle Elongation Facilitated Laparoscopic Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh Repair of Complex Ventral Hernia.

Background: Complex ventral hernia remains a challenging situation for any surgeon. In this study, our aim was to analyze the effect of laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) repair in the treatment of complex abdominal wall hernia, with the assistance of preoperative progressive pneumoperitoneum (PPP) and botulinum toxin A (BTA). Methods: In this retrospective study, we included 13 patients with complex ventral hernia between May 2021 and December 2022. All patients undergoing PPP and BTA protocol before hernia repair. The length of abdominal wall muscles and abdominal circumference were measured from CT scan. All hernias were repaired with laparoscopic or laparoscopic-assisted IPOM. Results: Thirteen patients received PPP and BTA injections. PPP and BTA administration time was over 8.8 ± 2.5 days. Before and after PPP and BTA, imaging showed that the length of lateral muscle on each side increased from 14.3 to 17.4 cm (P < .05). The abdominal circumference increased from 81.8 to 87.9 cm (P < .05). Complete fascial closure was obtained in 13 patients (100%), and no patient experienced postoperative abdominal hypertension and ventilatory support. No patient suffered from recurrent hernia to date. Conclusions: Preoperative PPP combined with BTA injection plays a role similar to component separation technique, avoids the abdominal hypertension after laparoscopic IPOM repair of complex ventral hernia.

OC-089 A CHALLENGING REPAIR OF RECURRENT VENTRAL HERNIA IN A PATIENT WITH A PREVIOUS INTRAPERITONEAL MESH AND ABDOMINOPLASTY

Abstract Aim To understand the challenges faced in repair of recurrent ventral hernia in a patient with a previous intraperitoneal mesh and abdominoplasty. Introduction Ventral hernias still represent a great challenge for surgeons, especially if they are recurrent. We present a 54-year-old overweight female with complex surgical history and a recurrent incisional hernia. She had a laparoscopic cholecystectomy and port site hernia which was repaired without a mesh. She later underwent a Roux-en-Y Gastric bypass for obesity and developed another port site hernia in lower epigastrium. The incisional hernia was repaired with an intraperitoneal mesh. Finally, she had an abdominoplasty for cosmetic reasons. She presented to our surgical clinic with a clinically palpable recurrent large incisional hernia. Methods The repair was carefully planned with a CT abdomen confirming a 6 cm defect in the upper midline and a large intraperitoneal mesh with multiple metallic tacks. The surgical procedure was as follows: Midline incision and careful dissection of the sac. The intraperitoneal mesh was identified and removed carefully keeping the posterior rectus sheath and peritoneum intact. A posterior component separation technique was performed. Posterior rectus sheath was closed with interrupted absorbable sutures. A tailored polypropylene mesh was placed in retro-rectus space. The anterior rectus sheath was closed with non-absorbable interrupted sutures. Patient had an uneventful postoperative period and was discharged on the third postoperative day. Conclusion Careful patient selection, detailed preoperative planning and expertise in abdominal wall reconstruction result in a successful repair of complex ventral hernias.

The outcome of Transversus Abdominis Release for complex ventral hernia: A one-year of follow-up experience

Introduction: Transversus Abdominis Release is a noble technique for the repair of complex ventral hernia, where the posterior component separation allows a huge pre-peritoneal space advantageous for the placement of large-sized mesh. It has less wound morbidity as compared to anterior component separation due to the preservation of skin perforators. The main objective of this study was to evaluate one-year follow-up results in terms of recurrence, wound morbidity, and various techniques for managing complications of Transversus Abdominis Release. Methods: This is a descriptive crosssectional study that was conducted at the department of surgery, College of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital. Among 41 patients with complex ventral hernia, 34 patients met the inclusion criteria. Demographic data, intra-operative events like bleeding, operative duration, intraoperative complications, post-operative events like duration of hospital stay, wound morbidity, and follow-up data were analyzed. Results: Posterior rectus sheath closure at midline was possible in 30 (88.2%) patients. In patients, where posterior rectus sheath closure was not possible, the peritoneum of hernia sac was tailored to patch the defect or in some omentum was placed below the raw surface of mesh. The average operative duration and blood losses were 130±12 minutes and 301±133 ml respectively. The semilunar line injury occurred in one case that was diagnosed and repaired at the same time and the TAR plane was re-established. Wound morbidity occurred in three cases that were managed by dressing with commercially available collagen and mupirocin granule. No recurrence was observed in one-year follow-up. Conclusions: Transversus Abdominis Release has a better result with no recurrence in short term follow up and fewer complications which are easily manageable.

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Article| December 2022 SEE Question ASA Monitor December 2022, Vol. 86, 13. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.ASM.0000904220.22330.89 Views Icon Views Article contents Figures & tables Video Audio Supplementary Data Peer Review Share Icon Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn MailTo Cite Icon Cite Get Permissions Search Site Citation SEE Question. ASA Monitor 2022; 86:13 doi: https://doi.org/10.1097/01.ASM.0000904220.22330.89 Download citation file: Ris (Zotero) Reference Manager EasyBib Bookends Mendeley Papers EndNote RefWorks BibTex toolbar search Search Dropdown Menu toolbar search search input Search input auto suggest filter your search All ContentAll PublicationsASA Monitor Search Advanced Search Topics: anesthesia, general, intraoperative care, length of stay, nitrous oxide, postoperative anesthesia care unit, surgical procedures, operative, intraoperative hypotension, vasoconstrictor agents Your next patient is a 65-year-old woman scheduled for a complex ventral hernia repair. According to a recent study, which of the following outcomes is MOST likely if you use a higher dose of nitrous oxide as an adjunct to the general anesthetic instead of no nitrous oxide? Since its first documented use by Horace Wells in 1844, nitrous oxide continues to be used as an adjunct when administering general anesthesia. Although it is known to facilitate emergence, the use of nitrous oxide is associated with an increased risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting. The impact of nitrous oxide on the overall length of stay in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) is not well documented. The authors of a recent retrospective study sought to determine whether patients receiving intraoperative nitrous oxide as an adjunct to general anesthesia had a shorter PACU length of stay. This single-center study included 148,284 adults... You do not currently have access to this content.

OC-054 LONG-TERM OUTCOMES OF POSTERIOR COMPONENT SEPARATION WITH TRANSVERSUS ABDOMINIS RELEASE (TAR) IN LARGE AND OTHER COMPLEX VENTRAL HERNIAS: A SINGLE-SURGEON EXPERIENCE

Abstract Aim The application of component separation techniques for the repair of large and other complex ventral hernias, has been a landmark in their successful management. The aim of this study is to present our experience with the posterior component separation with transversus abdominis release (TAR) in patients with these very demanding ventral hernias. Material &amp; Methods A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of all patients who underwent elective ventral hernia repair with TAR technique between January 2016 and May 2021 was performed. Selection of the type of inserted mesh was based on the risk of developing surgical site infection (SSI) and other surgical site occurrences (SSOs). Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data were analyzed. Results A total of 167 patients with large and other complex ventral hernias were included in the final analysis. More than 80% of patients had one or more comorbidities. Of all patients, 156 (93.4%) had a history of previous abdominal surgery, 42 (25.1%) had a history of SSI and 11 (6.6%) had active fistulas, of which nine involved previous implanted meshes. Postoperatively, SSOs were presented in 12 patients (7.2%), including three cases of SSI. Neither mesh infection occurred, nor mesh excision required. With a mean follow-up of 3 years, only one recurrence has been observed. Conclusions With a wound complication rate of less than 8% and a recurrence rate of less than 1%, our results show that TAR is a reliable, safe and effective technique for the repair of large and other complex ventral hernias.

P-138 PREDICTORS OF COMPLICATIONS IN COMPLEX VENTRAL HERNIA REPAIR USING POSTERIOR COMPONENT SEPARATION TECHNIQUE WITH RETRO RECTUS MESH PLACEMENT – AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract Introduction Incisional Hernia has an incidence ranging from 2–20%. Large and complex incisional hernias are difficult to treat with standard procedures. PCS-TAR is a relatively novel procedure. There persists a gap in knowledge regarding its outcomes, especially in the Indian population. Aims &amp; Objective To identify the pre-operative clinical and radiological factors that predict the risk of re-herniation and wound and mesh-related complications after CVH (Complex Ventral Hernia) Methodology In a prospective observational study, patients undergoing open PCS-TAR with retro rectus mesh for Complex Ventral Hernia repair included in the study. The patient demographics, hernia characteristics, radiological details, operative data, post- operative outcomes, and follow-up data were entered in a pre-designed proforma. Data were analyzed with SPSS softwere. Results 35 patients with CVH were included, of which 30 (85%) women and 5 men. The mean age was 51.8 years and the mean BMI was 29.7 kg/m2. The mean size of defect was 12 cm. 83% hernia were midline primary and 255 were recurrent hernias. We observed zero recurrences at six months of follow-up, but a high wound morbidity rate of up to 49%, of which most common was seroma formation. 23% of patients developed SSI. Conclusion In conclusion, PCS-TAR is a promising novel procedure for complex ventral hernias not amenable to primary closure using the traditional retro rectus approach, with excellent short term outcomes. Wound morbidity is a significant concern with this procedure, which can be prevented or reduced by thorough pre-operative optimization on a case-to-case basis.

Immediate changes in intra-abdominal pressure and lung indicators in patients undergoing complex ventral hernia repair with the transversus abdominis muscle release, with and without preoperative botulinum toxin.

The current treatment of complex ventral hernias involves muscle closure with components separation techniques and mesh placement. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the immediate postoperative changes in the intra-abdominal pressure (IAP), and lung indicators after treatment of complex ventral hernias with the transversus abdominis reléase (TAR) technique. All patients with complex ventral hernias treated between November 28th, 2016 and October 6th, 2021 were initially included. We excluded patients with lung and/or heart comorbidities. A total of 43 patients were studied, measuring IAP, lung compliance, pulmonary plateau pressure (PPP), and end-tidal CO2 before and after surgical treatment. Median IAP increased from 5to 9mmHg (p < 0.0001), and PPP from 11to 12mmHg (p = 0.004). Increased body mass index (BMI) was associated to a PPP increase above normal values. Postoperative changes were not different in patients receiving preoperative preparation with botulinum toxin. After complex ventral hernia closure, there is an immediate impact on IAP and PPP, the latter more frequent in patients with the highest BMI, and this maynot be prevented by the preoperative administration of botulinum toxin.

Imaging Insights Into Abdominal Wall Function.

PurposeThe successful repair of any complex ventral hernia requires a thorough understanding of the underlying anatomical defect and its functional context. We describe an improved “functional” approach to CT imaging of the abdominal wall that can facilitate this understanding and assist surgical planning.MethodsThis invited article reports the observational experience gained from the functional abdominal wall CT examinations of 88 patients who underwent complex ventral hernia repair using pre-operative Botulinum toxin A (BTA) infiltration of the lateral oblique abdominal muscles as well as a further eight patients with diastasis rectus abdominis who were examined to exclude ventral hernia.ResultsThe use of a functional CT protocol which supplements resting images with additional “crunching” images (acquired with the abdominal wall muscles all strongly contracted) can significantly improve the demonstration of ventral hernia defects. Crunching acquisitions can also help differentiate true hernias from dysfunctional bulges, identify muscle denervation or atrophic changes, reveal otherwise occult hernias that may be missed on resting or Valsalva images alone, and assist the pre-operative assessment of BTA effect.ConclusionA more functional approach to pre-operative CT imaging of the abdominal wall can significantly improve the understanding of complex ventral hernia defects and help formulate effective surgical plans that achieve low recurrence rates and good functional outcomes.

Botulinum Toxin A Facilitated Laparoscopic Repair of Complex Ventral Hernia.

Background: Complex ventral hernia repair can be challenging despite the recent advances in surgical techniques. Here, we aimed to examine the effectiveness of preoperative combined use of botulinum toxin A (BTA) and preoperative progressive pneumoperitoneum (PPP) for surgical preparation of patients with complex ventral hernia.Methods: In this prospective, observational study, we included 22 patients with complex ventral hernia between January 2018 and May 2021. All patients were treated with BTA injections into the lateral abdominal muscles and PPP before hernia repair. The lengths of abdominal wall muscles, the volumes of the incisional hernia (VIH), the volumes of the abdominal cavity (VAC), and the VIH/VAC ratio were measured before and after BTA and PPP using abdominal CT scan. All Hernias were repaired using laparoscopic intra-peritoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) or laparoscopic-open-laparoscopic (LOL) techniques.Results: Imaging showed a significant increase in the mean lateral abdominal muscle length from 13.1 to 17.2 cm/side (p < 0.01). Before and after BTA and PPP, the mean VIH was 894 cc and 1209 cc (P < 0.01), and the mean VAC was 6,692 cc and 9,183 cc (P < 0.01). The VAC increased by 2,491 cc (P < 0.01) and was greater than the mean VIH before PPP. An average reduction of 0.9% of the VIH/VAC ratio after BTA and PPP was obtained (p > 0.05). All hernias were surgically reduced with mesh, hernia recurrence occurred in only two patients.Conclusions: The preoperative combined use of PPP and BTA increased the abdominal volume, lengthened the laterally retracted abdominal muscles, and facilitated laparoscopic closure of large complex ventral hernia.

Preoperative botulinum A toxin as an adjunct for abdominal wall reconstruction: a single-center early experience at an Academic Center in New York.

the botulinum toxin A (BTA) has been used to achieve a chemical component separation, and it has been used with favorable outcomes for the repair of complex ventral hernia (CVH) with and without loss of domain (LD). The aim of this study is to describe our early experience with the chemical component separation in the United Sates. a retrospective observational study of all patients who underwent ventral hernia repair for CVH with or without LD between July 2018 and June 2020. Preoperative BTA was injected in all patients via sonographic guidance bilaterally, between the lateral muscles to achieve chemical denervation before the operation. Patient demographics, anatomical location of the hernia, perioperative data and postoperative data are described. 36 patients underwent this technique before their hernia repair between July 2018 to June 2020. Median age was 62 years (range 30-87). Median preoperative defect size was 12cm (range 6-25) and median intraoperative defect size was 13cm (range 5-27). Median preoperative hernia sac volume (HSV) was 1338cc (128-14040), median preoperative abdominal cavity volume (ACV) was 8784cc (5197-18289) and median volume ration (HSV/ACV) was 14%. The median OR time for BTA administration was 45 minutes (range 28-495). Seroma was the most common postoperative complication in 8 of the patients (22%). Median follow up was 43 days (range 0-580). preoperative chemical component separation with BTA is a safe and effective adjunct to hernia repair in CVH repairs where a challenging midline fascial approximation is anticipated.

Long-term outcome of absorbable synthetic mesh in clean ventral hernia repairs.

There are many materials available for the reinforcement of complex abdominal wall reconstruction, including permanent synthetic, biologic, and absorbable synthetic meshes. The recurrence rate of complex hernia repairs beyond 5years has not been reported. We hypothesized that the use of absorbable synthetic mesh in clean wounds would yield favorable long-term outcomes. Patients who underwent open complex ventral hernia repair with clean wounds (CDC class 1) using absorbable synthetic mesh (Bio-A, Gore, Flagstaff, AZ) in the retrorectus position were retrospectively reviewed. Chart review and a validated telephone questionnaire to screen for recurrence were utilized to evaluate and document hernia recurrence. A total of 49 patients were included in this study. Patients were followed for recurrences for up to 105months, with a mean follow-up time of 62.4months (5.2years). The total number of midline hernia recurrence was 7 out of the original 49 patients (14%). The mean and median recurrence time are 37.4 and 38.8months, respectively. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis estimated hernia recurrence rate as 2%, 4.6%, 7.1%, 12%, 15%, and 18% at 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72months, respectively. The use of absorbable synthetic mesh in clean wound ventral hernia repair resulted in favorable long-term recurrence rates. The recurrence rate of absorbable synthetic mesh is similar to that of permanent synthetic mesh, which gives a viable option for patients in whom permanent synthetic mesh is not an option.

OV14 POSTERIOR COMPONENT SEPARATION FOR A GIANT LUMBAR HERNIA IN A KIDNEY TRANSPLANT PATIENT

Abstract Aim Posterior component separation with transversus abdominis release (PCS-TAR) represents a good option for challenging complex ventral hernia repairs. We present a case of PCS-TAR for a giant lumbar hernia in a patient with a transplanted kidney. Material and Methods The patient is a 46 years old man with a Charlson Comorbidity Index of 2 and a BMI of 27.5 kg/m2 who underwent a kidney transplant in 2005 and a subsequent open repair with mesh implantation for an incisional hernia in 2007. Two years later, he experienced a hernia recurrence, but chose conservative management. In 2019, the patient complained of progressively worsening pain and bulky sensation. Due to the size and location of the defect and the massive relaxation of the muscle fibers, open repair with PCS-TAR was indicated. Results In 2019, the patient underwent right-sided PCS-TAR with retromuscular placement of one polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) mesh and one biosynthetic mesh. Duration of the procedure was 295 minutes. Two drains were placed, respectively in the subfascial and in the subcutaneous plane. Postoperative course required non-invasive ventilation for respiratory distress, but was otherwise uneventful and he was discharged on postoperative day 8. After 12 months, the patient showed no signs of recurrence. Conclusions PCS-TAR is a versatile technique for the repair of complex ventral hernias, with an acceptable rate of postoperative complications and good long-term outcomes.

OV06 EXTENDING THE INDICATIONS OF TRANSVERSUS ABDOMINIS RELEASE: SUBLAY MESH REPAIR FOR A RARE CASE OF ACQUIRED DIAPHRAGMATIC HERNIA

Abstract Aim Acquired diaphragmatic hernia (ADH) is rare and its treatment is challenging. Posterior component separation (PCS) with transversus abdominis release (TAR) is gaining wide acceptance for the repair of complex abdominal hernia, including those located in proximity of the abdominal borders. In this view the central tendon of the diaphragm could be intended as the rooftop border of the peritoneal sac. We describe an original application of TAR for the treatment of an unusual case of ADH. Material and Methods a 54 year-old man was referred to our department for an ADH, following two previous sternotomies for an aortic aneurysm, conditioning respiratory symptoms. A thoraco-abdominal contrast enhanced CT-scan confirmed an anterior left diaphragmatic defect with a transverse diameter of 8.5 cm and a huge sac containing the great omentum and the distal transverse colon, with atelectasis of the inferior lobe of the lung. A subxiphoid M1W2L2 incisional hernia was also detected. The patient underwent a midline xipho-umbilical laparotomy and a repair by partial TAR with posterior rectus sheath release and progressive dissection of the diaphragmatic muscular fibers far beyond the DH. A sublay repair with a large dual layer PVDF mesh was then accomplished. Results Postoperative course was uneventful and no recurrence was recorded at 6 months follow up. Conclusions partial-TAR could be a good option for repair of anteriorly placed ADH, ensuring a stable anatomical repair with an overlap that is usually wider than after laparoscopic IPOM repair. This novel indication confirms the extreme versatility of TAR for the repair of complex ventral hernia

P008 SYNCHRONOUS SURGICAL TREATMENT OF MORBID OBESITY AND COMPLEX VENTRAL HERNIA AFTER PROGRESSIVE PNEUMOPERITONEUM AND BOTULINUM TOXIN A INJECTION

Abstract Aim the worldwide increase in morbidly obese patients with complex hernia raises controversies in the choice of the appropriate treatment timing: synchronous bariatric and abdominal wall surgery versus delayed abdominal wall surgery. We report an innovative tailored surgical treatment carried out at our Institution. Material and Methods the approach provided the injection, six weeks before surgery, of 500 international units of botulinum toxin A on either side of the large abdominal wall muscles. Four weeks before surgery pneumoperitoneum was inducted and out-patient daily sessions of progressive insufflation with ambient air were then carried out. Surgery was scheduled 48 days after botulinum injection. Sleeve gastrectomy and simultaneous posterior component separation with transversus abdominis release were performed. Two prosthetic meshes were placed sublay. Results Postoperative superficial surgical site infection was successfully treated with negative pressure wound therapy. At one year follow up no hernia recurrence was recorded while total body weight loss was 31%. Conclusions a delay in ventral hernia repair could worsen quality of life of morbidly obese patients. In such high risk patients, the choice of the best surgical strategy remains controversial. There is great concern in performing bariatric surgery simultaneously to hernia repair, although there is lack of evidence on which is the ideal treatment modality. Synchronous bariatric surgery and complex ventral hernia repair should be approached in high volume centres where a consolidated experience of multidisciplinary team-work is available. Combined botulinum toxin A and preoperative progressive pneumoperitoneum administration allow for a safe resolution of loss of domain.